Delphi murders' investigation HQ moves back to city hall

Indiana State Police release a sketch of the Delphi homicide suspect and discuss latest information on the investigation.
John Terhune/Journal & Courier

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A sketch released by police Monday, July 17, 2017, of a man believed to be connected to murder of Liberty German and Abigail Williams last February in Delphi, Ind. The bodies of German, 14, and Williams, 13, were found a day after they were hiking near Monon High Bridge east of Delphi. (Photo: John Terhune/Journal & Courier)Buy Photo

DELPHI, Ind. — Headquarters for the investigation into the Feb. 13 killings of Delphi teenagers Liberty German and Abby Williams is moving back to city hall.

That doesn't mean the investigation is scaling back or being shelved, according to an Indiana State Police news release. It merely means that the large space inside the Carroll White REMC building is not needed.

In fact, tips increased after "The Dr. Phil Show" aired last month, spotlighting the Delphi killings. Police are still tracking down those leads, according to the news release.

The teens were discovered killed along the banks of the Deer Creek about a half mile east of the Monon High Bridge. They had been hiking the historic Delphi Trails on the last afternoon of their winter break.

When they didn't return, their families reported them missing. The girls were found late in the morning on Valentine's Day.

Police officers from across the state, as well as from several federal agencies, including the FBI, packed the Delphi City Hall to help investigate the killings. The Carroll White REMC soon offered its building at Franklin and Market streets.

Police have released a photo taken by German of the man suspected of the killings. They've also released an audio recording of his voice that German recorded as he ordered the girls "down the hill."

Indiana State Police released a sketch last summer of the suspect based on witnesses who encountered the man.

"Now moving forward, the need for such a large dedicated area is not necessary, and the investigative base of operations will be relocated back to the office space above city hall," Indiana State Police Sgt. Kim Riley wrote in the news release.

In its news release Monday, the Indiana State Police thanked the REMC and its board for their support and the use of the building.

The tip line and email dedicated to receiving leads remains open.

Anyone with leads may call 844-459-5786 or email the tip to abbyandlibbytip@cacoshrf.com